Family-Friendly Adventures in , Egypt!

Nile River

Why Visit?

Embark on an unforgettable family adventure along the historic Nile River in Egypt, a journey that promises both excitement and education. Here’s a perfect itinerary to ensure you capture the essence of this ancient waterway:

Day 1: Arrival in Cairo

- Visit the Egyptian Museum: Start your journey with a visit to the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Here, your family can marvel at treasures from ancient Egypt, including the famous Tutankhamun exhibit. The museum is accessible via taxi or bus from most parts of the city.

- Interesting Fact: The Nile River is about 6,650 km long, making it one of the longest rivers in the world.

Day 2: Fly to Aswan

- Flight to Aswan: Take a short flight from Cairo to Aswan – a beautiful city on the banks of the Nile.

- Philae Temple: After settling in, take a boat to the island of Agilkia to visit Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis. The temple complex was relocated to its current location following the construction of the Aswan High Dam.

- Interesting Fact: The dam created Lake Nasser, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world.

Day 3: Nile Cruise from Aswan to Luxor

- Board a Nile Cruise: Embark on a Nile cruise, a must-do for any visitor. The cruise offers a unique vantage point to see many ancient monuments and natural scenery.

- Kom Ombo: Stop at Kom Ombo to explore the double temple dedicated to the crocodile god Sobek and the falcon god Horus.

- Interesting Fact: The design of this temple perfectly symmetrical along its main axis.

Day 4: Luxor

- Valley of the Kings: Your cruise ends in Luxor, where you can explore the Valley of the Kings, home to the tombs of ancient pharaohs, including that of King Tutankhamun.

- Karnak Temple: Conclude your trip with a visit to the vast Karnak Temple complex, known for its impressive columns and statues.

Return to Cairo: Fly back to Cairo for your onward journey home, filled with lasting memories of the majestic Nile River.

This itinerary offers a blend of historical exploration and leisurely sailing, perfect for a family eager to discover the wonders of the Nile River.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Temple of Horus (at Edfu)

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting journey to the Temple of Horus at Edfu, an essential stop for families exploring Egypt"s ancient wonders. As one of the best-preserved temples in Egypt, it offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the past.

### Getting There:

The town of Edfu is conveniently located between Luxor and Aswan, making it accessible via a short train ride from either city. Families can enjoy a scenic route along the Nile and experience the local culture. Alternatively, many opt for a Nile cruise that stops at Edfu, adding a touch of relaxation and luxury to your adventure.

### Start Your Tour:

Begin your day early to avoid the heat and the crowds. Upon arrival, you’ll find the magnificent Temple of Horus, dedicated to the falcon-headed god of the sky. It’s an architectural marvel from the Ptolemaic period, built between 237 and 57 BCE.

### Explore the Temple:

Enter through the grand pylon adorned with battle scenes depicting Horus defeating his enemies—captivating stories for any child (and adult!). Inside, wander through the columned courtyards and halls, marveling at the detailed hieroglyphics that cover the walls. Don’t miss the sacred boat sanctuary, where a replica of Horus’s boat is displayed, once thought to carry the god during festivals.

### Engaging Activities:

For an interactive experience, families can participate in a guided tour where Egyptologists explain the myths and legends of Horus, making the history come alive for kids. Be sure to have a scavenger hunt leaflet for the kids to spot various carvings and symbols, turning learning into an exciting game.

### Lunch and Leisure:

After exploring, enjoy a leisurely lunch by the Nile at one of the local restaurants serving Egyptian delicacies. It’s a perfect time to reflect on the stories and history you’ve absorbed.

### Departure:

As the day winds down, head back to your train or cruise ship, carrying memories of an ancient world that once thrived along the Nile. This immersive visit not only educates but also inspires awe across all ages, making your family trip both fun and informative!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Abu Simbel Temples

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Abu Simbel Temples

Morning: Journey to Abu Simbel

Start your adventure early in the morning to make the most of the day. You can fly directly to Abu Simbel from Cairo or take a short flight from Aswan. For a more scenic route, consider a family-friendly guided bus tour from Aswan, which takes about 3 hours. This journey along Lake Nasser offers stunning desert landscapes and a chance to spot local wildlife.

Mid-Morning: Explore the Temples

Arrive at the magnificent Abu Simbel Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These temples were built by Pharaoh Ramses II and are famous for their grandeur and architectural prowess. Begin with the Great Temple of Ramses II, adorned with colossal statues of the pharaoh. This site is perfect for a family photo!

Inside, tell the kids to look out for the intricate carvings on the walls that depict historic battles and stories of ancient gods. A fascinating fact for the kids: the entire temple was moved from its original location in the 1960s to save it from flooding due to the creation of Lake Nasser!

Lunch Break: Picnic with a View

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the designated area with a view of the temples. This is a great time to relax and enjoy some snacks while soaking in the historic site"s atmosphere.

Afternoon: Visit the Temple of Hathor

Next, head to the smaller but equally captivating Temple of Hathor, dedicated to Ramses II’s beloved wife, Queen Nefertari. Learn about her role and influence during Ramses" reign, which is a great way to introduce discussions on powerful women in history.

Late Afternoon: Interactive Learning

Participate in a short workshop or a guided storytelling session usually available for families. This session often involves local myths and legends, giving a deeper understanding of the ancient Egyptian civilization.

Evening: Return to Aswan

Conclude your day with a relaxing drive back to Aswan as you reflect on the incredible history and stories learned today. Consider a tranquil evening cruise on the Nile to cap off your memorable day at Abu Simbel.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Kom Ombo Temple

Why Visit?

Family Adventure to Kom Ombo Temple

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your morning early by heading to Kom Ombo, located approximately 48 kilometers north of Aswan. The easiest way for families to visit is by arranging a private tour or booking a taxi from Aswan, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey. Upon arrival, marvel at the temple"s unique double design, dedicated to two gods: Sobek, the crocodile god, and Horus, the falcon-headed god. This architectural peculiarity makes Kom Ombo one of a kind in Egypt!

Interesting Fact: The temple"s design mirrors the dual nature of its gods, with dual sanctuaries and mirrored halls.

Midday: Crocodile Museum Visit

Adjacent to the temple is the fascinating Crocodile Museum, which is perfect for curious minds. The museum showcases mummified crocodiles, once revered as sacred animals, and explains their significance in ancient Egyptian culture. It"s a rare chance for kids to see these ancient creatures up close and learn about ancient wildlife conservation!

Afternoon: Enjoy Local Snacks and Scenic Views

After exploring, grab some local snacks from nearby vendors. Enjoy ta’ameya (Egyptian falafel) or koshari as you sit by the banks of the Nile. The temple"s proximity to the river offers a serene spot to relax and enjoy the landscape. Teach the children about the Nile’s role in ancient Egyptian civilization and its continued importance today.

Evening: Sunset by the Nile

Conclude your day with a breathtaking sunset view over the Nile, a perfect backdrop for family photos. Reflect on the day"s adventures as the ancient river changes hues, providing a peaceful end to an educational and exciting visit.

Tip: Come during late afternoon to early evening to avoid the heat and catch the stunning sunset views!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Unfinished Obelisk

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting journey to the Unfinished Obelisk in Aswan, Egypt, a monumental testament to ancient engineering. Perfect for a family adventure, this site offers a unique glimpse into the stone-working techniques of the ancient Egyptians.

Morning Arrival

Start your day early by flying into Aswan International Airport or taking a scenic train ride from Cairo or Luxor. Upon arrival, hire a taxi or take a guided tour to the Northern Quarry, located just a short drive from the city center.

Visiting the Unfinished Obelisk

Once at the site, marvel at the colossal Unfinished Obelisk, still attached to the bedrock. If completed, it would have stood about 42 meters (137 feet) tall, making it the largest obelisk ever attempted. The obelisk provides clues about how the ancients planned to detach such massive stones using only simple tools and handiwork. Engage the kids with stories about the obelisk"s intended recipient—possibly Queen Hatshepsut—and discuss why it might have been abandoned due to a large crack.

Interactive Learning

Let the children participate in a fun quiz about the tools and methods believed to be used by the ancient quarry workers, such as dolerite balls and copper chisels. This hands-on approach will make the history come alive for them.

Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a family picnic at the nearby botanical gardens on Kitchener"s Island, reached via a short boat ride. The lush landscape and exotic plants provide a relaxing backdrop for a midday break.

Afternoon Exploration

Conclude your day with a visit to the Aswan High Dam, a modern engineering marvel, just a short drive from the quarry. Explain to the children how this massive structure controls the flooding of the Nile, generates electricity, and stores water for irrigation.

End of Day

Return to your hotel or continue exploring Aswan’s rich cultural landscape. Reflect on a day well-spent unraveling the mysteries of ancient and modern achievements.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.